Franck Tortiller & Misja Fitzgerald-Michel – The Open Chords of David Crosby

Who could have guessed that the Californian folk-rock music of David Crosby, one of the stars of the historic Woodstock festival, would be reborn as jazz thanks to two French musicians?

Five years after their beautiful duo album *Les Heures Propices*, on which they primarily performed the vibraphonist’s original compositions, Franck Tortiller and Misja Fitzgerald-Michel now tackle songs by David Crosby, one by his bandmate Stephen Stills, and two by the vibraphonist himself. The CD’s title may seem misleading, as the two partners draw inspiration from both the chords and the melodies of Crosby’s themes. In other words, melody reigns supreme here, both in the presentation of the pieces and in the improvisations on guitar and vibraphone. The two instruments (six- and twelve-string acoustic for the guitars) produce magnificent sounds that immediately captivate you with the beauty of their melodic lines and chords. Those familiar with the Crosby, Stills & Nash repertoire will easily recognize the tunes performed here, and those unfamiliar with the originals will undoubtedly want to go discover them. For Tortiller and Fitzgerald-Michelremain faithful to the spirit of these melodies, which they clearly love, and which they transpose into the jazz idiom, highlighting their compatibility with this unique treatment. The guitar—whether playing chords, arpeggios, or single notes—serves at times as an accompaniment with impressive rhythmic energy, and at other times as an inspired soloist. The vibraphone also alternates between solo parts and chordal accompaniment. We know that Tortiller is a formidable rhythm player and an accomplished melodist. It is therefore a constant delight to hear him in this duo setting with a guitarist he has once again called upon, who complements him with remarkable precision and musicality. An album to be shared with everyone and recommended to ears that crave limpid, vibrant beauty.